During the postseason, the reigning NBA Rookie of the Year was heavily criticised by fans for not making enough of an impact for the 76ers, and was even booed after the opening game of their run in the playoffs, against the Brooklyn Nets.

Also criticised in the media, there was some speculation that Simmons would be traded in the off-season as opposed to being offered a contract extension in Philadelphia that could be worth hundreds of millions of dollars.

But Simmons received a vote of confidence from star teammate Joel Embiid, having already been supported by coach Brett Brown, who has been told his job is safe despite the playoff exit.

"We have a lot to work on — me [and Simmons]," Embiid said.

"I'm excited about all the work I'm going to put in this summer and he should be too.

"He has a lot of potential. He can do so much more and be right there. I'm going to support him through everything. That's my brother."

For his part, Simmons said he was looking forward to putting the work in during the off-season, which fans will hope includes adding a jump shot.

"I'm really looking forward to getting back in the lab and putting the work in," he said.

After two complete seasons, Simmons is yet to hit a three-point shot, which is part of what makes his fit with superstar centre Embiid and the rest of the 76ers awkward.